cai1 ji4妻兒妻儿
Jyutpingcai1 ji4
Yalechāi yìh
Definition
One's wife and children.
neutralfamilypeople
How it's used
This term carries a formal and slightly literary tone, often appearing in dramatic contexts or serious discussions about family responsibility. While it is perfectly understood in daily life, people usually prefer the more casual 老婆仔女 when chatting about their own families. It is frequently used in set phrases regarding moral obligations or the consequences of one's actions.
Examples
He works so hard every day to support his wife and children.
Related words
Common phrases
misfortune should not befall one's wife and children
Common mistake
Avoid using this to refer to your own family in casual conversation, as it sounds overly stiff or like a line from a period drama. Use 老婆仔女 instead to sound like a local.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
